The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Area 2 Command in Onne, Rivers State, made a significant drug bust with the seizure of containers holding counterfeit pharmaceuticals valued at over N46.3 billion. Comptroller Mohammed Ndede, the Customs Area Controller, announced this at a press briefing on Monday, displaying the confiscated drugs to the media.
Ndede explained that recent security concerns and a series of high-profile contraband seizures prompted the declaration of a three-month state of emergency at Onne Port. This directive granted Customs the authority to inspect any suspicious cargo. “The proactive approach ensures no illegal substances evade detection,” he stated.
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The latest seizure includes 21 containers filled with various illicit drugs, such as cough syrup containing codeine and counterfeit antibiotics, posing serious risks to public health. According to Ndede, the contraband was concealed under materials like plumbing supplies and grinding tools in an attempt to bypass customs checks. A 20-foot container loaded with donkey skins, valued at over N441 million, was also confiscated.
Working alongside agencies like the NDLEA, DSS, Quarantine, and NAFDAC, the Onne Command has strengthened its enforcement capabilities under the emergency protocol. So far, 63 container seizures have been made this year, including 844 rifles and over 112,000 rounds of live ammunition, Ndede revealed. The total Duty Paid Value for these seizures stands at an estimated N130.5 billion.
On revenue, Comptroller Ndede reported that Area 2 Command has collected over N550 billion so far in 2024, amounting to 89% of its annual target of N618 billion. He also highlighted the command’s role in facilitating exports, processing over 2.4 million metric tonnes of goods valued at $826 million.
Two suspects have been detained concerning the recent seizures, with investigations underway. The seized items were handed over to relevant agencies, including the NDLEA and Quarantine, with plans for NAFDAC to receive designated items in the coming days.
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